Aviation is a dynamic and evolving industry. Yet, women remain underrepresented and make up only about 6% of airline pilots worldwide, according to Women in Aviation International. Nevertheless, women aviators throughout history have proven that gender is no obstacle to achieving their dreams. With the continued inspiration of trailblazing women who pave the way for future generations, we can change the tide.

Women Pioneers and Role Models in Aviation

From pilots to aerospace engineers, these women transcend stereotypes and break barriers, inspiring countless others to take flight.

Bessie Coleman: Defying gravity and prejudice

Despite facing both gender and racial discrimination, Bessie Coleman became the first African American and Native American woman to obtain a pilot’s license in 1921. Rejected by aviation schools in the United States, she trained in France, and obtained her pilot’s license in just seven months. Returning to America, she encouraged others to reach for their dreams, regardless of their background.

Amelia Earhart: The sky’s the limit

Amelia Earhart is perhaps the most iconic female aviator, becoming the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean in 1932, defying societal expectations and the technical limitations of her time. Her passion for aviation extended beyond personal achievement; she was a vocal advocate for women’s rights and encouraged women to pursue careers in male-dominated fields.

Jacqueline Cochran: Pushing the boundaries of speed and skill

Jacqueline Cochran, a legendary figure in aviation, broke countless speed, altitude, and distance records, establishing herself as one of the most accomplished pilots of all time. In 1953, she shattered the glass ceiling for women in aviation by breaking the sound barrier. During World War II, she headed the Women Airforce Service Pilots, a corps of female pilots who manned military aircraft.

Eileen Collins: Breaking the stratosphere

A former Air Force colonel and test pilot, Eileen Collins made history as NASA’s first woman Space Shuttle pilot (1995) and commander (1999). With her achievements, she carved out a distinguished career in both aviation and space exploration — two areas historically monopolized by men. Her message is clear: women belong at the forefront of exploration, whether it’s in the skies or among the stars.

Vernice Armour: Zero to breakthrough

Breaking new ground in both gender and race, Vernice “FlyGirl” Armour became the U.S. Marine Corps’ first African American female combat pilot in 2001. A trailblazer in every sense, Armour flew attack helicopters during the Iraq War, garnering numerous honors for her service and bravery. Her motto, “Zero to breakthrough,” encourages women to push beyond limits and pursue their dreams with tenacity and grit, no matter the challenges they face.

The first all-female, all-African American crew: A historic milestone

On February 12, 2009, Atlantic Southeast Airlines’ crew, consisting entirely of African American women, became the first of its kind. Captain Rachelle Jones Kerr, First Officer Stephanie Grant, and Flight Attendants Diana Galloway and Robin Rogers came together unexpectedly when Grant stepped in to fill in for the original First Officer who got sick. This unplanned yet serendipitous crew serves as a reminder that representation matters, and that the skies are open to everyone.

Kimberly Anyadike: The next generation

In June 2009, at just 15 years old, Kimberly Anyadike piloted a single-engine Cessna coast to coast across the United States, becoming the youngest African American woman to do so. Anyadike’s story is a powerful example of how young women can break barriers early in life with the right mentorship, guidance, and passion.

Stephanie Johnson and Dawn Cook: Making aviation history

In 2017, Captain Stephanie Johnson and First Officer Dawn Cook became Delta Air Line’s first all-black, all-women cockpit crew. This groundbreaking achievement during Women’s History Month marked a significant milestone in aviation, highlighting the progress women of color are making in breaking barriers within the industry. Cook and Johnson’s trailblazing flight serves as an inspiring reminder of how far diversity and inclusion have come in aviation, and their success continues to pave the way for future generations of female aviators.

Closing the Gender Gap: Strategies for Inclusion in Aviation

While these remarkable women serve as inspiring examples, a significant gender gap still persists in aviation and other science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. However, with intentional efforts, we can continue to promote a more inclusive and equitable STEM community. Here are some strategies to help close the gap:

Education and Early Exposure

Encouraging girls to explore aviation and STEM from an early age is crucial. Programs like Girls in Aviation Day spark excitement and possibility, offering young girls the chance to experience aviation through hands-on activities, mentoring, and exposure to women role models. By breaking down stereotypes early, more girls can see a future for themselves in aviation.

Mentorship and Networking

Mentorship is critical in fostering a sense of belonging and confidence in women pursuing aviation careers. Connecting girls and young women with successful female pilots, engineers, and leaders in aerospace can provide the guidance, support, and inspiration girls need to overcome societal barriers.

Scholarships and Financial Support

Financial constraints can be a major obstacle for women seeking careers in aviation. Play Like a Girl helps address this issue by offering scholarships to support young women’s educational and training pursuits in aviation, aerospace, or any STEM field.

Inclusive Workplace Cultures

To foster a more equitable work environment, aviation companies and STEM organizations must cultivate a culture of inclusivity that makes women feel valued and supported. Implementing policies that promote work-life balance, equal pay, and anti-discrimination can make aviation careers more accessible and rewarding for women.

Join Play Like a Girl to Support Girls in STEM

The aviation industry is transforming, and women are playing a pivotal role in its evolution. But this journey requires collective effort to ensure that women can break through barriers and soar.

Play Like a Girl is an organization committed to empowering girls and young women to pursue careers in STEM. We believe that the sky is filled with limitless possibilities for anyone brave enough to reach for it, so we encourage girls to dream big, providing them with the resources, support, and mentorship they need to succeed.

Interested in shaping the next generation of trailblazers in aviation and other STEM fields? Sign up with Play Like a Girl to mentor, donate, or join our community of game changers. Together, we can level the playing field and ensure every girl has the chance to reach new heights. Partner with us.